Daryle Lambert Blog: Antique/Vintage Cameras

The Daguerreotype, built in 1839 sold for 391,000 British Pounds in 2007, through the Vienna Gallery and Auction House, becoming the highest price paid for a camera. Photo from Gizmodo

Paintings often recorded events happening at the time, but once the camera was developed, it took the place of paintings in many ways. Because their realistic paintings could no longer compete with the camera for recording events, Artists began to change their methods of painting in order to hold the public interest. They began using styles to catch the attention of their audience. Impressionism, Modernism, Surrealism, and Pop Art became a means the artist could earn a living.

Photography started in the early 1800s and by 1854 had become very popular with the public. By 1866 cabinet cards came on the scene and everyone wanted their picture made. The cabinet cards were 4 ¼ by 6 ½ inches in size making them large enough to display in picture frames. But I wanted to talk abut cameras.

The prices for cameras today can go through the roof especially if they are the earlier varieties. The Blair no. 3 folding plate from the late nineteenth century can bring several thousand dollars, but you don't have to go back that far to find a treasure. Kodak Ektra 35mm Rangefinder may well bring you over $1,500 today, and it was from the 1940's. The Pignons Alpa 11E, made in Switzerland, in the 70's, in mint shape might command $2,000. Nikon Fish-eye, from 1962, is another camera that you should keep in mind while you're out on the hunt.

I have shared this next story in my book, but I think now is the time to repeat it. My partner Warner and I had been searching for treasure together for a few years when I received a call to look at some items. After looking at the items offered, I called Warner and asked if he could look them over, because all I saw that could possibly be of interest was some old camera equipment. He agreed to look. He decided we should buy the camera equipment. Although he didn't know much about camera equipment, he thought they could be a bargain.

Although I was not comfortable with the idea of buying this camera equipment, I asked Warner what they wanted for it. They were asking $900. Warner thought this was still a bargain, and asked what I thought we should counter offer. "Offer $750," I said, secretly hoping it would be refused. I just didn't know enough about camera equipment to be offering that kind of money. In a few minutes Warner called me back. I figured he'd been refused, but it turned out we were the new owners of this camera equipment.

The camera was made in the early 1900s by Deardorff, a Chicago company. It was the Rolls Royce of cameras. Warner put the camera and equipment on eBay, and it sold for $6,400. I thanked Warner for that one, and afterwards I ate a lot of crow over my hesitancy.

When you run across cameras at a sale, you might very well find several in a box. I'd suggest you not pick one out of the box and ask the price because that will show it might be special. Always ask the price for the whole box and might get a wonderful treasure. If you find that special camera, it will make you a wonderful picture, as you smile holding that rather large check.

If you like what you read here, come join The 31 Club. With our FREE MENTORING, you'll learn to build wealth buying, selling and reinvesting in antiques, collectibles and fine art. If you're looking for a way to live out your Golden Years with plenty of funds, or perhaps grow enough funds to retire early from your present job, then this is the club to join. When you join today, you'll receive my 220 page book, 31 Steps to Your Millions in Antiques & Collectibles, FREE.

Want to read more about the 31 Club? Read this article here.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us.

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Daryle Lambert Blog: Spring Antique Market and Vintage Toys

31 Club Member found this Vintage Donald Duck Toy now at auction on eBay with a bid of $327

Yesterday, as I stepped outside, there was something different about the scent in the air, and I finally felt assured Spring is just around the corner. A moment of peace came over me, and I felt so thankful to God that He blesses me each and everyday as I get to interact with the wonderful people that He is bringing into my life through the 31 Club. Whether it is a person asking for prayer or someone sharing their joy of finding a treasure, it greatly enhances my day. God Bless each and every one of you.

With Spring waiting just around the corner, I remind you that there is no better season to make money in the Antiques, Collectibles, and Fine Arts business than Spring. People will be cleaning out and remodeling their homes, so the garage sales and house sales spring up like the new flowers. From items given up as trash in garage sales, spring new life to knowledgeable treasure hunters.

Everything is fresh and new in the Spring, so don't you think it would be a great time for you to complete those first steps in your race to your first million? For some of you, this would be a wonderful time to leapfrog over those beginning steps and rise to where the real money is in this market – the less common and more valuable items.

I am challenging all those that are still waiting to see if the plan that the 31 Club has shared with them really works to go out and prove it to yourself by taking your very first steps. If you’re still a doubter, I’ll share a story with you that will show you its truth. But for now, I’m giving you an assignment, and here it goes:

Over the next few weekends, circle all the garage sales that list children's toys. Attend as many as possible and look for tin toys from the Japanese companies. These may be windup or friction and buy anything that is under $5.00. Next make a list of toy companies that you remember as a child such as Mattel, Disney, Hubley, Marx, Chein, Arcade, Lehmann. There are many more so make your own list. You might ask your parents, or older relatives and friends to add to this list, depending upon your age.

Try to buy them as cheaply as you can. I have found that toys at most garage sales can be bought for under $15.00. Don't stop until you have completely spent your hundred dolls. Remember, condition is very important and damage can hurt the value. Check to see if they are reproductions, especially banks. However, don't pass by a great toy by for condition reasons only if it is priced reasonably enough.
I can almost guarantee that you will make at least you first step in the million dollar race if you will follow this plan that I have just set out for you. If you will do this just as I have described it here and you don't double your money, I will personally refund the cost of your membership in the 31 Club. How’s that for a no loss proposition?

If you’re still a doubter, this story, from one of our members, might give you some encouragement.

Daryle,

Let me first say "Thank you!" for your inspiration and encouragement with regards to antiquing. Your book is a wealth of resource to which I greatly appreciate.
Two weeks ago I went with my father-in-law a few miles down the road to a friends antique barn. This man has thousands of items packed into his barn. Granted, most of the stuff is junk, however I thought there could be a treasure somewhere. I've been to this place a few times in the past but was never really searching for treasure. Well, this time I was determined to find something, but would keep the rules in mind.

During my browsing, I came across a small display case. In it I saw a toy Donald Duck riding a tricycle wagon. It was made of tin and the pictures on the side of the wagon were definitely early Disney. Remembering your blog about how popular tin toys made in Japan were, I asked to look at the toy. The toy was in very good condition and on the bottom it read Line Mar and Japan. I asked the man how much he wanted for the toy. He said he couldn't take less than $25. I told him I would think about it. As the man and my father-in-law went on discussing other things, I went out to the truck and looked up the item in my Kovels price guide. I found a similar item for $112. I thought that I could probably make $70-80, thus staying within my goal. I went back in and asked the man if he would take $15. He said "No, but I'll take $20." So I bought the toy.

Well, I listed the toy on eBay on Thursday. I checked the price on Friday and it was $26. I thought, "At least I'll make my money back." and left it at that. Things completely changed yesterday evening. We were at my in-laws and I thought that I would go on-line and check the price. To my utter shock, the price was $280! The whole family felt like we won the lottery!

I just checked the price this morning and it's up to $327, and we still have 3 days left! Well, I didn't mean to write a book. I just wanted you to know how appreciative I am in your encouragement and information. I'm so excited about what other treasures are just hidden around the corner!

Your Friend,
Kurt

Kurt can write a book for me any day. And yes, it is just like winning the lottery, only with far less competition. Kurt, you are our Star of the Week. I can't wait to see what the toy is finally sold for. If you want to follow his listing, look up Item number: 250222886600 on eBay. Or, do a search for "Vintage Donald Duck Toy."

The 31 Club uses a wealth building plan that can help you accumulate enough funds to last a lifetime, buying and selling antiques, collectibles, and fine art. Join the 31 Club. Learn about Antiques & Collectibles. Learn How to Invest in Antiques & Collectibles and build lifetime wealth. The plan is in my book. When you join today, you'll receive my 220 page book, 31 Steps to Your Millions in Antiques & Collectibles, FREE. My mentoring comes with the club membership. Right now, it's only $19.95 to join, receive a FREE book and get FREE Mentoring. How can you beat a price like that? This offer is worth thousands of dollars, yet right now it's only $19.95! What are you waiting for? You'll spend more on a good pizza than it cost for all this right now. Join Here Now.

"...I spent about 15 years in the antiques and collectible field
and I can tell you this is one of the best books you will ever
read about making money with art, antiques and collectibles."
-Skip McGrath, Auction Seller's Resources & EBay Powerweller

"It has been a great pleasure knowing Daryle for more than
10 years. I share his excitement in releasing this book. He is
a man of his word."
Riley Humler, Cincinnati Art Galleries
Consultant, Antique RoadShow

Want to read more about the 31 Club? Read an article here.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us.

Visit Our Homepage.

Please leave a comments. If you don't want to sign in, just use the ANONYMOUS button. Chime in and participate!

Daryle Lambert - Must Be Crazy

It is 6:00 in the morning and I am writing a blog. Your first question must be why? So let me explain. As you know, my father-in-law passed away Monday, and I went to Kentucky and only returned to Chicago very late on Thursday evening.

Leaving my wife Vickie and son Joshua in Kentucky to comfort their Mother and Grandmother, I returned to Chicago alone Friday night. Having more to do than one could imagine, I started to catch up on my emails, book shippings and record keeping. You may not believe this, but I am only half caught up and I am still at the computer now at this time in the morning.

Not wanting to be alone, I keep the television on, and as I was working I heard the announcer say, "Our guest for tonight is Marsha Collier, and she will be educating us on making money on eBay. You bet, I stopped what I was doing and began to listen to the show, presented by Public Broadcasting.

Marsha is the author of eBay for Dummies, and several other books as well as a DVD series. As I listened I realized that she has accumulated all the information that a person needs to be successful on eBay and her presentation is very professional. However, I realized that she was showing the viewers how to make a living or extra income, and said that to increase that income all you had to do was work more. She is right. If your goal is limited to weekly or monthly income. In my mind, this defines a job. If that is what you are after, then I would highly recommend her as a source for anyone wanting to use eBay in this manner. However, the program that the 31 Club has designed for you offers much more in the way of life changing opportunities.

I am going to list a few of these life changing opportunities, so that you will truly see the wealth building plan that has been put together for you. First we expect you to provide a living for yourself and your family by doing what you're doing now, or become full time dealers in merchandise that you will be buying and selling.

The 31 Club Program doesn't expect you to spend all your time listing items on eBay so that you can increase your income. Rather, you will become knowledgeable through our program so that you can identify the rare and unusual items that will make you at least 100% return on your investment each time you buy and then sell an item. We are now at the point where the two plans -- Marsha's plan and the 31 Club Plan really part ways. You see, her plan prepares you to do the same thing over and over again, not really providing you with the opportunity to advance up the scale of life. The 31 Club Program, utilizes compounding and can help you to take a very small amount of money and build a fortune from it, while allowing you to maintain your present life style in the process.

I realized that there is room for both plans. In fact, we would encourage you to use a combination of the two if you want to. Many of our members are doing just that. However, 31 Club Plan uses a very definite strategy that must be followed and should be completely separate from anything else that you are doing. All the records such as check books, ledgers,inventory sheets and expenses should be kept totally separate from anything else that you may have going.

By watching this show when I should have been sleeping, it made me realize even more how fantastic and totally unique our program is. Others have started the process for success, but The 31 Club will write the final chapter.

The 31 Club uses a wealth building plan that can help you accumulate enough funds to last a lifetime, buying and selling antiques, collectibles, and fine art. Join the 31 Club. Learn about Antiques & Collectibles. Learn How to Invest in Antiques & Collectibles and build lifetime wealth. The plan is in my book. When you join today, you'll receive my 220 page book, 31 Steps to Your Millions in Antiques & Collectibles, FREE.

"...I spent about 15 years in the antiques and collectible field
and I can tell you this is one of the best books you will ever
read about making money with art, antiques and collectibles."
-Skip McGrath, Auction Seller's Resources & EBay Powerweller

"It has been a great pleasure knowing Daryle for more than
10 years. I share his excitement in releasing this book. He is
a man of his word."
Riley Humler, Cincinnati Art Galleries
Consultant, Antique RoadShow

Want to read more about the 31 Club? Read an article here.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us.

Visit Our Homepage.

Please leave a comments. If you don't want to sign in, just use the ANONYMOUS button. Chime in and participate!

Daryle Lambert: Vintage Comics Bring in Bucks

I heard from one of our most faithful members today, and she supplied me with a real story for you. Vicki H. has been communicating with me almost from the day we started our Blog. If there is still anyone out their that doesn't think treasures can be found today, they must not have run into Vicki H.

This latest story is even better than the ones she has shared in the past. We all have heard that Comics can be profitable, but do you know which ones are making Vicki jump for joy? You might be surprised that the funny books, as they were known as at the time, aren't the ones that are bringing the most money. Even I was caught off guard. It's the Horror Books that are moving to the head of the class. Vicki H. has just listed several lots of comics, and one listing is already standing out. This lot is for two Golden Age Comics from 1952-53 and titled "Tales of Terror." Having 13 bids, standing at over $400 for the two, with five days left to go their final price is anyone's guess.

Yes, Horror is where it's at, but why? Let's think about it together. First, parents might not have wanted their children to read those, so there might have been fewer printed. Second, the story lines were limited, so this could be another reason for their rarity. If you have any thoughts on this please comment.

I can check how Vicki's listings are doing, and so can you by going to zvicki40 on the advanced search under "sellers." If you aren't aware that you can look up individual sellers, then this is a great eBay tip for you. When you make a list of sellers who deal in items that interest you, you can checking their sites directly. This is a good way to find listings that can be purchased for your customers at prices that can meet our goals. This way you don't have to continually check all the listings on eBay to find what you want.

So often I have been at garage or estate sales and have seen boxes of comics that I passed by. I was so sure that if there had been anything rare, someone would have pulled it from the pile. Duh -- how dumb was I? By doing this I have probably passed by tens of thousands of dollars when I could have purchased the whole box lots for only a few dollars. You see, even though I have been in this business for over 40 years, I am still learning! That's what makes this business fun, as well as profitable.

As you can see, money in this business can come from all directions, and you will never run out of things to purchase that will put a smile on your face when they are sold. In this case, as I have mentioned in previous blogs, when you have the opportunity to buy multiple items at one time, usually the price is cheaper, and there is always the possibility that there could be a real treasure hidden in those boxes.

Way to go Vicki! Thanks for educating the rest of us. I will be waiting with bated breath for your next success story.

Learn about Antiques & Collectibles and Learn How to Invest in Antiques & Collectibles. We use a wealth building plan to get the most out of buying and selling. A plan that will help you accumulate enough wealth to last a lifetime. Join the 31 Club. When you join today, you'll receive my 200 page book, 31 Steps to Your Millions in Antiques & Collectibles, FREE.

"...I spent about 15 years in the antiques and collectible field
and I can tell you this is one of the best books you will ever
read about making money with art, antiques and collectibles."
-Skip McGrath, Auction Seller's Resources & EBay Powerweller

"It has been a great pleasure knowing Daryle for more than
10 years. I share his excitement in releasing this book. He is
a man of his word."
Riley Humler, Cincinnati Art Galleries
Consultant, Antique RoadShow

Want to read more about the 31 Club? Read an article here.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us.

Go to Our Homepage.

Please leave a comments. If you don't want to sign in, just use the ANONYMOUS button. Chime in and participate!

Daryle Lambert: The British Are Coming – Clarice Cliff Art Deco Wares

You may not have heard of Clarice Cliff but you'll remember her after you read this Blog. In fact, I will be adding her works to our hot list for this year. There are many of her treasures to be found, but right now, most people wouldn't even recognize them as Treasures. But, isn't that precisely what we're looking for?

I will continue to guide our 31 Club Members to study the rare and unusual. That is where the real money is to be found, and that is what we are looking for. Clarice Cliff falls in to this class, and we are so thankful that it is off most people's radar.

This lady was way ahead of her time when she popped onto the scene in the early twenties. Clarice Cliff's colorful Art Deco wares were the hit of the town back then. She produced almost everything that could be used on the proper English Table. Over time, these wonderful pieces have been forgotten by most people, but now, they have arisen once again, lead by the tremendous demand for her Bizzarre Ware. Honolulu, Rudyard and Blue Firs are other patterns that also command extremely high prices.

It seems strange to me that more U.S. dealers aren't really acquainted with Clarice Cliff, but that can also be said about most things that are produced outside of this country. I'm guessing the reason why is that most U.S. dealers might feel that since it wasn't produced in this country, then their chances of finding a great piece are slim, so they don't bother researching these areas. It's the same old story. Buy what we can find the most of. What a mistake that is.

There is a wonderful site that I would like to direct you to: www.claricecliff.com. At this collector's club, I promise you that items can be seen here that you will fall in love with. They are as modern as today and can definitely dress up a rather dull table. This site provides you with all the patterns and designs for Cliff's work plus the marks you will be looking for.

Should you find a piece of Clarice Cliff ware, be sure to check for damage because this will reduce the price that someone is willing to pay by as much as 75%.

I once picked up a piece of Bizzare Ware from a grouping of items spread out on a table, and the lady at the sale told me that I can have anything there for five dollars. To tell the truth, I just liked the Deco look, so I bought it. I put it on eBay, and the first night the bid was already over $150. "Well, looky here," I said to myself. If I remember it correctly, it closed between $350-$500. Now that is the return I love to see.

If everyone is talking about certain items, then your chances of making a score are slim. But if you're the only one in the crowd that knows the value of the items being offered, then you are in a pear tree.

Find out more about my book, 31 Steps to Your Millions in Antiques & Collectibles. When you order, your membership in the 31 Club is Free.

Want to read more about the 31 Club? Read an article here.

If you have any questions about the book or the club, e-mail me at info@31corp.com.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us.

Go to Our Homepage.

If you wish to leave comments use the ANONYMOUS button and then you don't have to sign in to leave your message. Chime in and participate with us.

Daryle Lambert: Skip McGrath of Auction Seller's Resource - THANK YOU!

Skip McGrath

There is no better feeling than to be confirmed in your passion by a person you consider a giant in the field. When someone goes out of their way to recognize the effort that you have expended, that deserves a heart felt thanks.

This is what happened to us yesterday when Skip McGrath of Skip McGrath's Auction Seller's Resource wrote a review of our book, "31 Steps to Your Millions in Antiques & Collectibles." Skip is unquestionably one of he most recognized people today who has the pulse of eBay in his grasp. I have admired his efforts through his Auction Seller's Resource. He has provided others with necessary information on the highest and best use of eBay, and in doing so, has prospered the lives of many, helped employees become business owners, and enabled them to better provide for their families.

With his permission I share his book review with you:

"I discovered a great little gem of a book called 31 Steps to Your Millions in Antiques and Collectibles. Actually I didn't discover the book, it discovered me when the author called me asking me to review the book. He sent me a copy (its a printed book --not an eBook). The book is written by Daryle Lambert, who has years of experience in the business. At $19.95, the book is grossly under priced considering the valuable information it contains as well as free membership in his 31Club that comes with every purchase.

Actually I have it backwards. What you do is pay a one-time $19.95 membership to join the 31 Club - 31 Steps To Building Personal Wealth Step by Step with Fine Art, Antiques & Collectibles, then the book is mailed out to your for free. This is not an affiliate program (I wish it was because I enjoy making money from things I can really stand behind). I spent about 15 years in the antiques and collectible field and I can tell you this is one of the best books you will ever read about making money with art, antiques and collectibles. The book and membership is available at www.31corp.com."

To my amazement, as soon as the review hit his newsletter and website, our computer began to register hits and orders. This is a great testimony to the strength of his position in the market place and in the confidence people have in his recommendations. The tools and information that Skip provide for professional auction sellers is almost limiteless. Skip's website is http://www.skipmcgrath.com/?kbid=1836&img=BasicGuide11.gif

Find out more about my book, 31 Steps to Your Millions in Antiques & Collectibles. When you order, your membership in the 31 Club is Free.

Want to read more about the 31 Club? Read an article here.

If you have any questions about the book or the club, e-mail me at info@31corp.com.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us.

Go to Our Homepage.

If you wish to leave comments use the ANONYMOUS button and then you don't have to sign in to leave your message. Chime in and participate with us.

Daryle Lambert: EBAY SERVES SCRAMBLED EGGS

I hate to admit this is my opinion but, it is. Ebay has served us the fluff. Yes, they have taken their plan, confused it, and are expecting us not to know that it is just fluff, all puffed up. In fact, if you take an egg, fluff it up into an omelette, it's still an egg. I call this a "Lambertism": Confusion can't trump the truth."

Now it's evident why Meg Whitman announced her retirement. She knew that the market would explode with criticism over the changes that were coming down the line. Why should she stay and ruin the ten year legacy of being one of the top executives in the whole world when she knew the bubble was about to pop?

No matter how you slice it, Ebay's new changes is an attempt to increase revenues so that the stock will reverse its downward spiral. But I think I have news for them. It ain't going to work, and in my opinion, if these changes stand, this stock might be the best short in the market.

I can now hear the stampede of feet searching for other places to sell their merchandise. In fact, if these changes stand, I predict that there will be several new auction sites that will be opening in the near future. This pie is going to be sliced into thinner and thinner slices, and Ebay will be the loser.

Their competition must be in shock today. They were thinking that they might have to rearrange their own marketing plans, because Ebay would be taking away their advantages. Instead, they find themselves in an excellent position to take more market share from Ebay.

Now, it will be wise to evaluate each week where the best service is for the members of the 31 Club and recommend these companies. Does this mean never telling people to use Ebay? No. But we might tell them to wait until Ebay has a day of no listing fees, or other special offers, because under the present plan, these increases don't provide the best value in the marketplace.

One of the "interesting" changes, is that the seller can no longer respond to a buyer's feedback. Now what is this all about? The seller, under the new plan, can no longer respond to negative feedback given by a buyer. The sellers are just asking for a fair shake and the opportunity to defend themselves against unscrupulous buyers.

Stay tuned. I don't think you have heard the last of this yet. It will be interesting to see if the new CEO can stand up under the pressure that is sure to be coming over the next few weeks.

In the South we have an old saying: "Keep your powder dry." This might be a great time to practice patience.

Join me and the rest of the 31 Club as we build wealth in antiques, collectibles, and art, right here. You'll get my book, "31 Steps to Your Millions in Antiques & Collectibles" for FREE. Or, if you're not quite sure about joining and have some questions you'd like to ask me, or just want to talk with me, E-mail me at info@31corp.com. I'll personally see to it that we set up a time to talk with one another.

Discover how the 31 Club, together with my book, "31 Steps to Your Millions in Antiques & Collectibles" can be the tool that helps you begin building personal wealth using antiques, collectibles and fine art. Find out more about joining our growing community of antique and art wealth builders here.

Need to read more about the 31 Club? Read an article here.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us.

Go to Our Homepage.

If you wish to leave comments use the ANONYMOUS button and then you don't have to sign in to leave your message. Chime in and participate with us.

Nothing is Too Large - Not Even a Classic Car

I have shared with you that for me, I am not usually interested in dealing with anything that is larger than a bread basket or a painting. But there are exceptions. No, I'm not interested in making furniture one of my primary items to deal with, but I might make an exception, if the money is right.

I'm talking about cars today. Yesterday, a friend asked if I would buy or sell her daughter's car, because she was away at college and didn't need it. My first inclination was to say no. I appreciated that she had thought of me, so I had second thoughts. I wondered what kind of car it was, so I asked. Turns out it's an early Cadillac convertible from 1968 in great shape.

Wow! I had just read where these convertibles from the 50's and 60's, with their huge tail fins and big headlights, were in big demand. All of a sudden my thoughts changed. I could just envision that Cadillac being a mile long with those huge fins as I took it for a drive down the highway. A real treasure was being dropped into my lap. What would I do with that?

At this point, whether I bought the car or sold it on consignment, it was going to be a great find for me. You see, if people know what you're doing, don't be surprised what happens. I just happened to be at church, and she approached me with this proposition. Keep in mind that we are in the money growing business. I wouldn't want to become a used car salesman, but if I can purchase a real classic car or even sell it for someone, I would be a fool to turn it down.

Remember, it is always about what the item is. If I get a call on an old pump organ, I usually ask the person what they would pay me to move it, but if the call is about a Steinway piano, then that is a different story. The rare and expensive items will make all the extra work you might have to do worth it. Don't prejudge until you know what is being offered.

All the big name celebrities collect cars, and I am sure you've heard that Jay Leno has one of the biggest collections in the country. When I was a child, it was the Model A's and Model T's that people collected, but today, the muscle cars and the large touring cars are popular and in demand.

When I was interested in cars as a teen, I dreamed about Alburns, Packards, Cords and other cars of that vintage. Not collectors today. They want the Corvette, GTO, Mustang and other vintage muscle cars. Even if you find a car with a with a special engine, it can add thousands of dollars to its value today. Believe it or not, I have even seen cars that needed total restorations sell for thousands of dollars.

Get a car magazine and just list the cars that are in demand. Then keep your eyes open. There might be one sitting right in your neighborhood that could be a great treasure for you. There might be one sitting in the driveway of the next estate sale you attend. Browse the Internet for prices of these treasures.

Isn't this business great? Who says money doesn't grow on trees? I am so thankful I read that great book, “Treasure Island” as a kid, and I'm still experiencing the thrill of the adventure today.

Discover how the 31 Club, together with our book, can be the tool that helps you begin building personal wealth using antiques, collectibles and fine art, rather than the conventional methods using stock, bonds, and real estate investing. You won't find results like these through your bank or your stock broker! Find out more about joining our growing community of antique and art wealth builders here.

Read more about The Million Dollar Challenge 31 Club members are participating in, here.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us.

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A Word of Caution: Commercial Art Auctions

Marcus Glenn Painting.

I was privileged to have been invited to a charity art auction last night. Although knowing I would be accompanied by three fine ladies, my wife Vickie, approved of my going. You see, these ladies were all members of the 31 Club, and Marsha, whom I've mentioned in my previous blogs, is a member of my church.

I've had the pleasure of talking over lunch with these three ladies over the past few weeks, and I have helped them form a partnership where they will be committed to fulfilling the 31 Steps with us. I wish I had more of our members leaning on me for information and assistance, but I am sure that will be coming.

When we arrived at the auction, artwork was lined up along the walls as if it had just come off the truck. In fact, they didn't even take the ear pads off the paintings. I took a quick look around and could see that this was definitely a commercial sale where the artist's works had very little, if any, auction records available. I knew there wasn't anything of interest to me that would be auctioned, even though it was for charity. While there were works by Peter Max and a few other names you might recognize, most of these were works on paper and limited editions. I rarely buy anything on paper, as its value just isn't there.

While the gentleman conducting the sale gave it his all, and I would want him to work for me any time, there was limited interest in the auction, and it actually never got to be much of an auction, in my opinion. Usually the first bid was the last bid. While the auctioneer was both fun and well-informed when it came to art and the art world, he was working with a crowd that had little interest in what he was selling and did not participate much. So, why were we there?

Most of the people there had a strong interest in their community and wanted to help the charity, if they could. We were also served a great meal and free beverages. I also believe that some of the people would have bought, had the prices been more what they expected -- moderate. I am fairly certain the high prices caught many off guard.

If you are invited to this type of auction, often times held on cruise ships, it is fine to go. But be very cautious about what you buy, unless it is to decorate your home and you are willing to pay the price they are asking. Don't get caught up in the event, however. I consider what I saw last night mostly to be decorative art with no intrinsic value.

There was, however, a high point in the evening for me. An artist by the name of Marcus Glenn was invited to show his works and speak about himself and about what art means to him. His pieces immediately caught my eye, and I believe this young man has a tremendous talent and future. If I had a wall in my house to hang anything else, it would be one in his series called "Storm." One of the signature elements of his paintings definitely appealed to me. Each piece has a wooden flooring that is different colors. As he explained it to me, this is his way of thanking God for making us all different.

Discover how the 31 Club, together with our book, can be the tool that helps you begin building personal wealth using antiques, collectibles and fine art, rather than the conventional methods of using stock, bonds, and real estate investing. You won't find results like these through your bank or your stock broker! Find out more about joining our growing community of antique and art wealth builders here.

Read more about The Million Dollar Challenge 31 Club members are participating in, here.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us.

If you wish to leave comments use the ANONYMOUS button and then you don't have to sign in to leave your message. Chime in and participate with us.

LINK: Marcus Glenn

Daryle Lambert: Indian Pots and Indian Artifacts

I've gotten a little excited about Indian Pots after mine sold for $2,220 at auction. It was a older one, by Marie and Julian Martinez of the San Ildefonso Pueblo tribe. This piece is called "Black on Black" because of the way in which it was fired. The buyer is probably please with the purchase, because I believe he can still double his money on it, if it wasn't bought for his or her personal collection.

As I've studied, I found that pieces from 1880 to 1920 seem to bring the most money, however there are exceptions depending on who the potter was. There are many tribes that produced fine pottery including the San Inldefonso, Santa Domingo, Santa Ana, Acoma, Zuni, Zia, Laguna, and Jemez tribes.

Pottery production had almost vanished until the twentieth century, and then it had a dramatic revival because of the traders. Most of the pottery you will find today was made after the turn of the 20th century.

A book that will help in your search in the field of Indian pottery treasures is North American Indian Artifacts by Lar Hothem. This will will be a wonderful start into your research of Indian artifacts. It not only includes pottery, but Indian Blankets, Arrowheads, Bead Work, Baskets, Pipes and many other objects. This book is a must if you find you have an interest in Indian artifacts.

The following examples and their prices of these might be low today, as my guide was printed in 1998. But starting with a 1910 Zia Pueblo Storage Jar, 17" x 20", with a subject resembling a road runner, shows an estimate of $45,000. Now remember, that was in 1998. be low because my book was printed in 1998. A Zuni Water Jug depicting a deer, with a 14" diameter water jug with a deer, estimated to have been made in 1890, is valued at $7,500. A 1960's 11" Maria and Popovi Da San Ildefonso Black on Black Plate, is estimated at $9,500.

There is a lot of very inexpensive Indian pottery on the market so be advised get some books or take the pieces that you are thinking of buying to an expert before you spend your money. On the other hand, if you find a piece that looks as if it is old or has a great look of quality to it and the price is extremely cheap, take a chance. You might just walk away with a treasure. Like I say, there aren't many people qualified to appraise Indian artifacts.

I'll be writing more about Indian Artifacts in future Blogs, so stay tuned.

If you're out in Marin County, California or planning to travel there on February 23 & 24th next month, The 24th Annual Marin Show: Art of the Americas would be the place to go to see these items up close and meet some of the most well respected dealers in the world. Click here for more information about this show.

Steve Elmore's Indian Art site is a good place to take a look at some of these items and see how they are priced in his gallery. And, by all means, do an Internet search on what interests you, whether it be pots, baskets, blankets or anything else, and see what you might learn.

Today's Photo is courtesy of Old Territorial Shop. Take a look around their website and view some of these exciting Indian Artifacts.

Discover how our book can be the tool that helps you build more personal wealth than you might have thought possible. And doing it in the Antiques, Collectibles, and Fine Art Markets rather than the traditional methods. You won't find these kind of results with your bank or your stock broker!

Read more about The Million Dollar Challenge members are participating in.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us. Contact us here.

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Daryle Lambert: Bad News All Around -- But Great News for Antiques, Collectibles and Fine Art

The Stock Market was down 250 points yesterday, unemployment rose to 5 %, plus housing sales were the worst in sixteen years. Time to panic, right? Not so fast. This might very well be the best time to be in our business -- buying and selling Antiques, Collectibles and Fine Art. In fact, it might even be the best time I've seen in the past ten years. With all this bad news circulating on every news channel, how can that be? Let's examine some facts to find out.

Higher unemployment means more people will be selling some of their possessions. That is good for us.

The stock market might plunge and investors might need to get some quick money to meet their margin calls. I've certainly seen it before in my days owning a securities firm. If you're not familiar with the stock market terminology, a margin call is when a person borrows from the brokerage house to buy more stock than there is money in their account to pay for this purchase. As the price of their stocks go down the brokerage house makes the investor put more money up so that the brokerage company doesn't assume risk for the customer. Where will this money come from? Perhaps artwork and other antiques? It's a good way to raise capital quickly.

Houses are being foreclosed or sold off, and either way, Antiques, Collectibles and Fine Art, more likely than not, will be coming to the market as people try to resolve some of their financial stresses. Again, these events can be times of great opportunity for us. So let's be on the lookout and scout out these situations.

As you begin to understand the 31 Club plan, you come to realize that you won't be hurt even if all other markets go south. How can that be? In part, this plan works on the spread between what you buy something for and what you can sell it for. With a very short time span between the time you buy and then sell, the market will have a very short time to move against you, and the spread that you've built into your purchase price should more than protect your profit. Combining this component with the compounding strategy, you will produce amazing cash results for yourself.

If you've been reading our Blogs, and you haven't yet joined us, why not? Our charter member fee is ridiculously low right now. But that's not going to last too much longer. Join today and become a charter member. You'll get in for next to nothing and not ever have to pay a renewal fee. Plus you'll get the 220 page book that shows the plan, plus tons of insider trade secrets that only the most seasoned professionals know. Click here to join us.

It is hard for most people to believe, but hard economic times create the perfect time to make the most money for those with the knowledge. An important part of our plan is having cash and being able to buy. These funds will be cash that you've created working the 31 Club plan.( We never borrow a dime from a bank or anyone else.) In bad markets, more things come to the marketplace to be sold. Since you'll only be buying the best, there will always be people waiting in line to buy your treasures all over the globe.

When someone needs to sell and you have the cash to buy, it's usually a done deal. That's why "Cash is King." We teach our members strategic buying and selling, not buying everything in sight that might produce a minimal profit. It's in the strategic buying and selling of only the finest and highest quality items that real cash will be produced and put you in the position to be "King."

As your buying account grows according to the growth plan we've laid out, the balance in this account can become quite large. Once you've made your next planned buy, then quickly sold it, you'll have an even greater amount to go on to your next buying/selling cycle. You can learn about our strategy and all about buying/selling cycles by becoming a member, here.

I have also found that in hard times the chances of purchasing multiple items increases, because people are trying to raise capital. You could always make a better deal for yourself when you are buying more than one item from a seller. If sellers have multiple items, your chance to make a great deal increases tremendously. And if you need help negotiating, we're just a phone call away.

I have told many of you that the months leading up to the elections should hold great opportunities for us. There is much uncertainty and nervousness, and there will continue to be until November. Happy Hunting.

If you're looking for the pathway to reach your goals with antiques, collectibles and fine art, the 31 Club can be the venue that will give you the nuts and bolts for successfully buying, selling and profiting in the 21st Century Marketplace. Join us today and rub shoulders with like-minded people.

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Daryle Lambert: The Underdog Can Win in Antiques, Collectibles, & Fine Art

Last night I got a lift from watching the election returns. It didn't matter who you were rooting for, which candidate had the most campaign money or endorsements by notable institutions. In the end, the "little man" won on both sides. It was like reading the story of David and Goliath. And this is what our 31 Club is all about. Do you think you're the underdog in this market? Do you want to take advantage of the sizzling hot antique, collectible and fine art markets but think you don't have the money or knowledge to do it? If you have as little as $100 and the willingness to study and learn, the 31 Club can help you turn that $100, over time, into a figure with many more zeros. Can you wrap your mind around that?

You can become educated with the help and direction offered through joining the 31 Club and in time, be trading in the higher-end of these markets reaping the financial gains that, right now, you see others reaping. And you don't have to leave your present employment to do it.

If you can commit yourself to actively participating in expanding your knowledge through further education with us and study on your part, you will blossom and flourish. Ask yourself if watching TV in the evenings or chatting on the Internet is adding any money to your bank account or improving the conditions of your life.

I run across people at every stop I make who have enough money to buy anything they desire, but they pass by the greatest treasures that can be found in this marketplace because they can't recognize a treasure when they see one staring right at them. Wouldn't you like to be the one who can recognize a treasure, have the funds to buy it at the right price, then sell it for great profit? Then, ask yourself how many times a year you'd have to make a trade like that before you'd have enough money to get you through your life.

The 31 Club is dedicated to shaping a new breed of dealers. And it doesn't require you to leave your present job, borrow a dime to buy, nor invest funds to set up a shop. In the 21st century, we work differently. Separating ourselves from the herd in the way we approach this business is the key to our prosperity. And it can be the key for you, too, if you let it by learning with us.

Do you know the difference between a production piece of Royal Doulton and a one of a kind piece? The difference can mean several thousand dollars in your pocket. Is it an old mark or a new one on that Zsolnay vase? If you know, you just might have a month or two's worth of upper class wages to add to your account. Who is the artist with the initials DMR that you happened to find in a second hand shop? Do you know how to find out? Is there anyone you can call for help? If you knew the initials DMR, you might find that the painting in that shop is by a listed artist worth over $50,000. And the shop owner doesn't even know it.

I could go on and on, but this I promise you, the members of the 31 Club will stand out whenever you attend any event where knowledge of the Antique and Fine Art markets is required.

Acquire the knowledge needed to win. Surround yourself with the like-minded people of the 31 Club so you won't be alone. Deal in the high-end markets with confidence. Our members are diligently spending their time acquiring knowledge while they experience the marketplace. Each time they buy and sell, they move to more valuable items. They are learning to be the most informed people around, succeeding by their knowledge and dealing with others in a fair and upright manner. Will you be one of them?

Learn to work this marketplace the 21st century way with the 31 Club. When the last votes are counted, like last night, I'll be betting on you. –Daryle

If you're looking for the pathway to reach your goals with antiques, collectibles and fine art, the 31 Club can be the venue that will give you the nuts and bolts for successfully buying, selling and profiting in the 21st Century Marketplace. Join us today and rub shoulders with like-minded people.

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Daryle Lambert: Where Beauty Began - Marblehead Pottery

I have outlined several different pottery companies for you to watch for throughout these blogs. I hope that you are beginning to see what an advantage having knowledge of multiple companies in your head is, as you are looking around. You are becoming the expert, and these will be your secrets to success.

Today we're adding Marblehead Pottery to our ever-growing knowledge base. This very simple small studio was started in 1904 to help teach ceramics to sanitarium patients but it became something entirely different. Arthur Baggs, founder of Marblehead, was a master potter at that time, and Marblehead produced some of the best Arts and Crafts pottery of the period. The factory was closed in 1936.

The carved Marblehead pieces are the most valuable, and many have as many as six colors included in the design. If you run across one that is heavily carved with five to six colors, the value may be well in the five figure range or more. The favorite colors are dark green, blue, light green, pink, yellow, brown, gray and orange. The more common the piece the less desirable it is, but just having the Marblehead mark on it means that it will bring several hundred dollars.

The subject matter for most of these pieces included simple nautical designs on matte pebbled backgrounds. Also used were many geomectic designs, and these are much in demand today, bringing very high dollars. Marblehead also made tiles, so watch for those as well.

Damage on Marblehead pottery pieces will be a real problem for collectors and might reduce the price as much as fifty percent. This is because Marblehead pottery was hard and durable, so you will find less damage to these pieces than most of the other pottery pieces.

When I first became interested in Marblehead Pottery, I found a small vase that I didn't think looked like anything special, so I offered under $100 for it. When the seller accepted my offer, I began to wonder if I had paid too much for this 4" tall vase with a few small carved flowers with three colors.

I put the vase up on eBay, hoping to make a few dollar. Then, the questions started to roll in. "Is there any damage?" and "Are you sure it's got three colors?" From the responses, I knew that this piece must be something special, but what were they willing to pay? After seven days I had my answer. It sold for $3,500.00. Today it would probably be even more.

Marblehead's main mark is a circle with a ship between an M on one side and a P on the other.

Today's Photo: Marblehead vase sold through Craftsman Auctions for $33,600 in 2006

Make sure your friends and loved ones have a copy of our book. You can sign them up for our 31 Club, and they'll get the book for free. Or order them the book, and get the membership for free. Either way, this makes a great Christmas gift for the special people in your life.

Discover how our book can be the tool that helps you become financially free simply buying and selling antiques, collectibles and fine art.

Be sure to visit our web site for more information about how you can join the 31 Club Wealth Building and start your own race to your millions! Read more about The Million Dollar Challenge.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us. Contact us here.

If you wish to leave comments use the ANONYMOUS button and then you don't have to sign in to leave your message. Chime in and participate with us.

Daryle Lambert: Beauty Shines in Our Youth - Caleb Noble Glass

You never know where the next surprise will surface, and this one surfaced at the One of a Kind Show at Chicago's Merchandise Mart.

When Cindy and I ventured out to the One of a Kind Show, it was mostly to see Doug Odom's outsider art exhibit. We weren't expecting to find much that would meet our criteria, because everything there was new, and of course, we primarily work with antiques. We were thrilled to run into glass artist, Charles Lotton, whose booth was kitty corner to Doug's, and a real surprise and treat for us. After visiting with Doug and Charles, we venture out and examined the more that 400 booths to see what was offered.

With a large rush of people moving between booths and down aisles, I suddenly realized Cindy had disappeared on me, so I back tracked a bit and found her mesmerized by a young 18-year-old glass artist as he worked on his new creation.

I stopped for a moment, to be courteous, and believe it or not, I couldn't get my eyes off of this young man as he worked that piece of glass. His name is Caleb Noble, and Cindy and I examined his case of dazzling glass jewelry pendants in awe. And not only is he talented, but his passion and enthusiasm for his work is so refreshing and a reminder to not give up on our youth today. There are ones out there that God has gifted and Caleb is definitely one of those.

Caleb spent some time with us and explained each step of his process. He doesn't use a kiln, but shapes and works his pieces by torch. These were some of the most outstanding glass works my eyes have had the pleasure to gaze upon in a long time.

Believe it or not, after looking at over 400 booths there were only two, other than Doug and Charles, that got my attention, The other one is a painter who I will write about in a later blog. You might think that by finding only two new artists at this show that I am rather choosy, but that's all right. Remember, we only want the best.

Today's Photos are of Caleb Noble and his glass jewelry pieces. I encourage you to take a look at some of his work, and I am certain that a little gift to yourself now might pay off big for you in the future. I'm willing to bet that anyone who wears one of his creations will have people asking about it.

You can see some of Caleb Noble's work here.

Club Member Update: I got a report on our club member, Andrew, and it breaks my heart to have to say it wasn't too good. His mother, Anne, asked us to continue to pray for him. Several of our members sent donations to the FD NOW fund, and Anne is extremely grateful to those who donated. For those who don't know Andrew, he is a young member of our 31 Club who is suffering from a very serious ailment, and If you would like to know more about him, please read my December 12th and October 15th Blogs.

Make sure your friends and loved ones have a copy of our book. You can sign them up for our 31 Club, and they'll get the book for free. Or order them the book, and get the membership for free. Either way, this makes a great Christmas gift for the special people in your life.

Discover how our book can be the tool that helps you become financially free simply buying and selling antiques, collectibles and fine art.

Be sure to visit our web site for more information about how you can join the 31 Club Wealth Building and start your own race to your millions! Read more about The Million Dollar Challenge.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us. Contact us here.

If you wish to leave comments use the ANONYMOUS button and then you don't have to sign in to leave your message. Chime in and participate with us.

Daryle Lambert: On Merrimac Pottery

While we are studying pottery, why not look at the company that produced some of my favorite pieces. This company is Merrimac Pottery from Newburyport, Massachusetts.

This company founded in 1897 by Thomas Nickerson, burned to the ground in 1908. I truly believe that if this hadn't happened, Merrimac Pottery would be the best known of the Arts and Crafts Pottery in this country today. I personally like it much better than Grueby, and it is more rare than Grueby.

The pieces of Merrimac Pottery are often heavily carved, with thick walls, often finished with just the glaze. Their best pieces often depict underwater vegetation.

Some people say that Merrimac pieces are molded, but even if that is true, the work and design on their surface is hand tooled. In my opinion, they are the most natural of all this type of pottery.

I always like to have things that you can't find in most people's homes, and this is true of Merrimac. The true collectors out there would pay almost anything for the right piece of this wonderful pottery, but they may have to wait a long time just to have the opportunity to buy a common item made by Merrimac. I wish that I had a super piece in my collection. So, it anyone out there is wanting to sell your piece of Merrimac, please give me a call.

Today's Photo shows the Merrimac mark so you can add this to your memory bank or keep it on the paper you keep with you.

To see examples of this fine pottery, Rago Arts and Auction Center has some very fine examples of Merrimac Pottery. here.

Don't forget to make sure your friends and loved ones have a copy of our book. You can sign them up for our 31 Club, and they'll get the book for free. Or order them the book, and get the membership for free. Either way, this makes a great Christmas gift for the special people in your life.

Discover how our book can be the tool that helps you become financially free simply buying and selling antiques, collectibles and fine art.

Be sure to visit our web site for more information about how you can join the 31 Club Wealth Building and start your own race to your millions! Read more about The Million Dollar Challenge.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us. Contact us here.

If you wish to leave comments use the ANONYMOUS button and then you don't have to sign in to leave your message. Chime in and participate with us.

Daryle Lambert: An Auction Provides the Testing Ground to Check Ourselves

We have studied many different types of Pottery, Porcelain, Paintings and Glass over the last few months through this blog, and our library of knowledge has increased substantially, but how are we doing?

That's the question I asked myself as I attended the auction at Direct Auction in Chicago yesterday, along with Cindy and our club member, Andre. There were many things that caught my eye before the sale started, and I previewed the pieces I might sell at prices that would meet my rules for purchase. The three of us were also interested to see what the coins would be selling for, and this was Andre's first auction at Direct Auction.

During the preview, I checked to be sure the items were what I thought they were, and then I continued to check them for any damage or flaws that might not be apparent at first glance. Mentally, I tried to recall similar items I had seen sell before, so I could set the upper range of my future bid. I also scouted out my competition to see how much interest there seemed to be in the pieces I hoped to be bidding on.

Yes, I had prepared myself as the start of the auction was coming near. Taking my seat next to Cindy and Andre, I felt the excitement starting to build. The crowd at this auction was one of the largest I've seen them attract in many months, so my expectations did diminish a bit because of that.

Coins were the first items offered, and I had checked the price of gold and silver before I arrived. If I could purchase half dollars, quarters and dimes that were minted before 1965, I decided I could pay up to five or six times their face value, not even consider their numismatic value, while still meeting my criteria. This auction had more coins than usual. There were literally hundreds of each type.. As the auctioneer began the sale, fifty or sixty coins would be lumped into a group and they were priced per coin. I found myself shaking my head in amazement at some of the prices these coins were going for. After all the coins had been sold, including the gold ones, I still hadn't made my first purchase. I have to admit, I was a little disappointed.

I figured my time would come when we moved on to the pottery, glass and porcelain. Finally, the Charles Lotton magnum paperweight was coming up, and I didn't feel there was much interest for it at this auction. Earlier, I had spoken to Warner Smith, the president of the Lotton Glass Club, and we agreed that if I could buy it for $250, I should do well. But, that paperweight was hammered at $400. No money to be made there. Next was some Doulton dogs. These used to be my specialty, so I thought I had the inside track on them. I think there were six, and since they were rather common, I figured that $50 each should buy them easily. When they sold for about $600, I could tell this wasn't going to be a very promising evening.

Now was the time to go to the counter and get some hot dogs for us and think about what was happening here. I asked myself whether or not this night could improve. It didn't. In fact, we didn't even stay for the art, because through my friends, I learned that bids were left on the paintings I was interested in. And those bids were greater than I would be willing to pay. A left bid is when someone previews the auction and then leaves an absentee bid on certain items.

Being totally discouraged, we decided to leave, but not before picking up our Christmas presents from the auction house -- a can of peanuts and a box of turtles.

By now you are probably asking what's the purpose of this blog? My answer goes back to the very heart of what I'd like you to have etched in your mind. In the first chapters of my book, I state that one of the most important things I would repeat over and over to you would be the necessity of having patience. Patience will be the key to your success using the wealth building plan in my book, and that patience combined with knowledge, will give you everything in life that you desire.

Yesterday I followed my own rule. I saw each one of those pieces slip from my hands at prices I knew I wouldn't be able to at least double. I had to use all the patience I could muster up not to give in and overpay for an item. But you know what? I still have my money, and there will be another day. While most of the people at the auction will make a very small gain on their investment, if any, I still have my money to buy a treasure that is waiting for me right around the next corner. At the price I want.

Discover how our book can be the tool that helps you become financially free simply buying and selling antiques, collectibles and fine art.

Be sure to visit our web site for more information about how you can join the 31 Club Wealth Building and start your own race to your millions! Read more about The Million Dollar Challenge.

If you haven't yet had a chance to see what we've got listed in the 31 Gallery & Marketplace, click on over and take a look. You might even find a real bargain. We've got many high quality items priced reasonably. If you have a high quality piece you'd like us to find a buyer for, why not consign your item to us. No high fees when you sell with us. Contact us here.

If you wish to leave comments use the ANONYMOUS button and then you don't have to sign in to leave your message. Chime in and participate with us.